Training dispute

"Despite council claims PSAs are not receiving proper training to carry out what are medical procedures.

"And the council can't have it both ways. If PSAs have been trained and have the skills and responsibility of delivering these complex needs then the case for keeping them on the lowest level of pay collapses."

Councillor Stephen Curran, executive member for education and young people, said the union had rejected all attempts at reaching a deal.

"We are really disappointed and sorry that Unison has decided to go ahead with the industrial action which will stop our most vulnerable young people coming to school," he said.

"We had organised another meeting on Tuesday to discuss our latest compromise offer - this has again been rejected.

"Throughout this dispute we have listened to their concerns and have offered to improve the pay of support staff."

Mr Curran added: "It is clear that Unison is not prepared to agree a compromise which would be in the best interests of their members."